Code Jumper

Code Jumper is a physical programming language to teach the visually impaired.

Code Jumper is a physical programming language designed to teach fundamental programming concepts to students ages 7-11. Designed for students who are blind or have low vision, Code Jumper is comprised of a physical kit, which includes a hub, pods, and other tools, as well as this app. The app can be used with screen readers and refreshable braille displays, making it accessible for all. Sighted students and those with disabilities other than visual impairments can use Code Jumper too, so everyone can collaborate and work together in one classroom. Code Jumper was originally designed by Microsoft and was developed by the American Printing House for the Blind (APH).

Code Jumper is an easy platform to help students build the skills necessary for a modern workplace. Students will utilize flexibility and computational thinking as they experiment, predict, question, and practice fundamental programming concepts in a concrete and tangible way.

Most existing coding tools are highly visual in nature, both in how the code is manipulated (such as dragging and dropping coding blocks) and in how the code behaves (such as showing animations). This makes them inaccessible to students who are visually impaired. Code Jumper is different: Both the app and the physical kit provide audible feedback, and the brightly colored plastic pods have oversized buttons and knobs connected by “jumper cables” (thick cords).

With Code Jumper, you can transform programming instruction into hands-on activities for children that are fun and educational. All students can physically create computer code that can tell stories, make music, and even crack jokes.

The accompanying sample curriculum lets teachers and parents teach coding in a gradual, systematic way. The provided resources, including videos and student activities, allow educators and parents to teach Code Jumper without prior knowledge or experience in programming.